The Oyo State Chapter of the Association of Motor Dealers of Nigeria (AMDON) has successfully conducted its first-ever democratic election, marking a significant milestone in the history of the association.
The election, held peacefully at the NUJ Press Center, Iyaganku, Ibadan, saw members of the association come together to elect new executives who will steer its affairs for the next four years. The smooth electoral process was widely commended by observers and members alike.
Outgoing caretaker chairman, Alhaji Ahmed Alobalowo, lauded members for their peaceful conduct and commitment to democratic principles. He emphasized the significance of the event, noting that the election was unprecedented in the Oyo State chapter, as previous leadership transitions had been through consensus rather than a formal voting process.
“I appreciate the members of the association and our National Executive representatives for ensuring a peaceful election. This is a historic moment, as Oyo State AMDON has never conducted a democratic election before. It signifies a new beginning for the association,” Alobalowo stated.
Alobalowo also expressed his deep appreciation to the National President of AMDON, Prince Engr. Ajibola Adedoyin, and the South-West Chairman, Chief Sola Olaniyan, for their unwavering support and commitment to the success of the election. He equally acknowledged the presence and contributions of Alhaji Bankole, the AMDON Chairman of Ekiti State, among the national representatives who attended and supported the process.
The election, observed by several leaders and members of the association, saw Kolawole Olurinde emerge as the new chairman, with Adeniran Abdulrasheed as vice chairman. Other key positions were filled by Oduola Kolawole (secretary), Falola Ayoola (public relations officer), and Olagoke Akinsoji (task force commandant), while some executives emerged unopposed.
The union’s electoral officer, Ojebunmi Dele Ajibona, presented certificates of return to the newly elected executives, formally recognizing their new roles and responsibilities.
Speaking on behalf of the national executive members present, Assistant National Secretary Adeyemi Adeyinka and National Auditor Alhaji Rasheed Iyiola affirmed the election’s credibility, describing it as free, fair, and transparent. They urged the new leadership to foster unity and drive development in the automobile sector, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among members to achieve collective growth.
In his acceptance speech, the newly elected chairman, Kolawole Olurinde, popularly known as A Plus Motors, pledged to prioritize members’ welfare and inclusivity. He assured members that the new executives would operate with transparency and accountability while seeking innovative ways to advance the association. He also called on all aggrieved members to join hands with the new leadership for the association’s progress.
Furthermore, the executives expressed their commitment to ensuring that AMDON becomes a stronger and more influential body in Oyo State. They pledged to work on policies that would protect the interests of members and promote business-friendly initiatives within the automotive industry.
While speaking on the election’s success, Alhaji Ahmed Alobalowo highlighted how the democratic process will set a precedent for future leadership transitions within the association. He emphasized the need for continued unity and cooperation, urging members to support the new executives in their efforts to drive growth and innovation in the industry.
With this historic transition, AMDON Oyo State embarks on a new chapter of leadership rooted in democracy, inclusivity, and collective progress. The association now looks forward to implementing policies that will benefit its members and contribute to the overall growth of the automobile industry in Oyo State and beyond.
